Newcastle-based alternative rock/grunge band A New Nowhere are continuing to go from strength to strength, helping to open a new HMV store, qualifying for the semi-finals of Metal 2 Masses, preparing more new material, and receiving overwhelmingly positive responses to their live shows. Wayne Madden spoke with Johnny Marko (vocals) and founding member Kev Gregg to learn more about the band he awarded 10/10 to in February 2021.
You helped reopen the HMV store in Newcastle recently. How did that go?
Yes. I was actually a Christmas temp there about nine years ago, which is how I first got connected with Steven Mason. He invited us back and has been incredibly supportive, always putting our name forward. A massive shoutout to him and everything he does for local artists. HMV also made our track ‘Downright Deadbeat’ their Track of the Week recently, which was amazing.
And just this week you qualified for the semi-finals of Metal 2 Masses. Congratulations. What was that like?
Thank you. Trillians is an amazing venue, and for a Thursday night we were blown away by the turnout. The atmosphere and feedback meant a lot. We’re just a group of lads who love playing music, and if people connect with our songs, it makes it all worthwhile. Hopefully we can turn a few more heads and reach the finals – playing at Bloodstock would be incredible. We actually competed in Metal 2 Masses ten years ago, so coming back and doing well again feels like real validation.
Would it be fair to say that venues like Trillians, Little Buildings, The Grove, Anarchy Brewery, HMV Newcastle and our own NE Volume Bar are vital for supporting North East artists?
Yes, absolutely. Since our reformation, places like NE Volume Bar and people like Steve Mason at HMV have been vital. Add in all the bands we play with, and it really feels like a family. The alternative scene is very supportive, and everyone looks out for each other.
You also played in Scotland recently, didn’t you?
Yes, we played the Wildfire Festival last year. The reception and feedback were honestly mind-blowing. We had people saying we were their band of the weekend, which meant a lot. We’ve even been invited back again this year.
What are the current plans for new material?
We’ve got a new single ready to go. We just need to organise a music video and set a release date, but it’s ready. It sounds quite different to ‘Downright Deadbeat’ – it’s a powerful track and touches on past experiences with mental health. It’s quite an angry song, full of emotion, and we’re really excited for people to hear it.
Musically and lyrically, would it be fair to say your material comes from a place of passion?
Definitely. We usually write the music first, depending on how we’re feeling. I find it hard to write happy lyrics – I can write upbeat music, but songs like ‘Downright Deadbeat’ tell quite dark stories. Every song we play, we connect with emotionally, and everything we put out is based on real experiences. People might relate to our songs in different ways, and that’s exactly what we want.
And finally, what’s next for the band?
Gigging is the main focus – building momentum and getting in front of as many people as possible. After the Wildfire Festival, we had momentum but not enough shows lined up, so we’re keen to keep things moving. We’re also preparing new material and doing everything independently, which can be challenging. We’re also looking to approach bigger artists, like Sevendust, to try and secure local support slots. Why not? It would be an incredible opportunity to showcase our music to a wider audience.
‘Downright Deadbeat’ is out now on all major streaming platforms, with more material coming soon.
